Arkle Novices’ Chase Expert Tips – 2.05pm Cheltenham

Today’s expert horse racing tips for the Arkle Novices’ Chase on Day 1 of the Cheltenham Festival

The second race on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival is one of the most exciting events of the week. The Arkle Novices’ Chase, run over the minimum distance, is a thorough test of jumping skill. Here are our free expert betting tips for the race.

Arkle Novices’ Chase Expert Betting Tips

Willie Mullins saddles the favourite Un De Sceaux, an intriguing horse with a front running style that has seen him dominate races from flag fall to finish. Should he take to the occasion, the course, and put in a clean round of jumping it is hard to see anything beating him.

Of the other Irish runners; Clarcam was no match for the Mullins runner last time out but can put in a good performance, he travels well and may have a say in the placings.

Smashing is lightly raced and won a Beginners Chase well last time out following good runs behind the smart Don Poli and the aforementioned Un De Sceaux. He may outrun his odds but will need to improve to mix it with the best of these.

On hurdles form Josses Hill would be a major player and hailing from the Henderson yard he cannot be dismissed, yet his jumping has left lot to be desired and for this reason he looks vulnerable.

Vibrato Valtat looks to be the main challenger and is a much improved horse since taking to fences. His form looks solid and should Un De Sceaux fail to live up to his reputation Paul Nicholls’ charge is the likeliest to take advantage.

However, at the prices, GOD’S OWN (EW)(40/1 Coral) is an interesting runner as a second season Novice Chaser who has beaten some very useful types at both Punchestown and Exeter.

Should things go to plan it is hard to look beyond the Mullins runner here, with Ruby Walsh in the saddle he seems to have a lot going for him. However, at odds-on he can be taken on with a lively outsider in GOD’S OWN. Western Warhorse sprung a surprise here last year and if the occasion get’s to Un De Sceaux Tom George’s runner may well be able to claim a place at a very generous price.